Some animals and plants are protected by both international law and conventions, European Directives and UK/Scottish legislation. The UK List of Priority Species and Habitats contains 1150 species and 65 habitats that have been listed as priorities for conservation action under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP). There is an equivalent list for Scotland which is the definitive reference for all statutory and non-statutory bodies involved in operations that affect biodiversity in Scotland.

A descriptive catalogue of 81 Priority Marine Features (PMFs) that have been identified in the seas around Scotland is available from NatureScot It includes descriptions for each PMF (including component habitats and species where appropriate) comprise an image, distribution map and short text outlining the characteristics, distribution and status of the species or habitat